Martin Nweeia and colleagues discovered that the spiral tusk (basically, a tooth) of the unicorn whale or narwhal has a rare combination of strength and flexibility, and perhaps a "super-sensing" power as well.

The team also found compelling evidence that the tusk may be a hydrodynamic sensory organ that contains an extensive nerve system and gathers valuable information for survival in Arctic waters.

Researchers say the tusk's nerve system could detect temperature, pressure, motion, and chemical-solution gradients, such as differences in salinity and water particles that would indicate the presence of certain fish prey.